SVG VS EPS, What are the differences and when to use?

Robin Harris
3 min readOct 6, 2023

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Are you an aspiring designer or someone who wants to use vector images and have been confounded between which format is best for your needs, SVG or EPS? Look no further. In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between SVG & EPS with examples of when each one should be used. So let’s dig into why understanding the distinction can help optimize your graphics design workflows for greater efficiency and success!

Definition of SVG and EPS — what are they, and how their file formats differ

In the world of modern design and graphics, file formats are essential elements that can make or break the work of a creative professional. Two commonly used formats that you might have heard of are SVG and EPS.

SVG, or Scalable Vector Graphics, is an XML-based vector image format that is widely used in web design and digital content creation.

On the other hand, EPS, or Encapsulated PostScript, is a vector graphics format that was originally developed for printing purposes but is now also used in modern digital designs.

While SVG is ideal for web-based designs, EPS files are suitable for printing high-quality graphics as they are resolution-independent. Both formats have their unique strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these differences is crucial in choosing the right format for your project.

How to open SVG and EPS files?

Both of these file formats are commonly used in graphic design, but they can be tricky to open without the right software. SVG files can be edited in programs like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape. EPS files can be edited in Adobe Illustrator, but they can also be opened in other software like CorelDRAW. If you don’t have any of these programs, there are also free online converters that you can use to convert the files into more common formats like JPG or PNG.

Benefits of using SVG over EPS

In today’s digital world, choosing the right format for your graphics is crucial. EPS and SVG are two popular file types that many designers use, but what sets SVG apart from EPS?

One major benefit is that SVG files are scalable and can retain their quality without losing resolution. This makes SVG perfect for use on any device, from desktop computers to smartphones.

Additionally, SVG files are lighter and have smaller file sizes compared to EPS, making them easier to share and upload without sacrificing quality.

These advantages of SVG over EPS ultimately make it a cost-effective solution for designers looking to create graphics that are flexible, high-quality, and easy to use.

When to use SVG/EPS for your design projects?

As a designer, you are constantly faced with decisions about which formats to use when creating visuals for your projects.

SVG is a great option for designs that need to be rendered at multiple sizes without losing quality. They are also easily editable since they are composed of vector paths rather than pixels. SVG files are also great for complex illustrations with many layers as they remain crisp due to their quality vectors, making them perfect for digital displays.

EPS is preferred for designs that require high-quality printing, such as logos and graphics for print media. EPS files are also compatible with a variety of design software and can be easily edited and manipulated.

What resources are available for creating SVGs/EPSs?

Creating high-quality SVGs and EPSs can be a challenging task, especially if you’re new to design software or don’t know where to start. Fortunately, there are a plethora of resources available online to help you get started. From free online tools like Vectr and Inkscape to premium software like Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW, you’ll find plenty of options to create stunning vector graphics. Additionally, there are countless websites and online communities dedicated to providing tutorials, tips, and tricks for mastering vector design:

1. vectormagic
2. vecteezy
3. vector4free
4. Freepik

In conclusion, SVG and EPS are both powerful vector-based image formats that make it easy to create high-quality, clean designs for web and print.

If you want to convert SVG to EPS, check this medium post here.

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